President's Message

OUT of the COLD & INTO the FLOW

As we begin to thaw out from another classic Wisconsin winter, it’s safe to say we’ve officially entered that time of year where anything goes—snow one day, sunshine the next, maybe a little rain or all three before lunch break. If nothing else, Wisconsin weather keeps us on our toes.

With the transition into spring, many of us are shifting gears from winter operations into the busy season ahead. Snowmelt, rain events, and fluctuating groundwater levels bring increased flows and the ever-present challenges of inflow and infiltration. Now is the time to get ahead of it by checking pumps, inspecting lift stations, and making sure equipment is ready to handle what spring throws our way. A little preparation now can go a long way in preventing bigger issues down the road.

Spring also serves as a reminder of just how critical the work we do is, often without much recognition. As communities come back to life after winter, people are out enjoying warmer weather, never giving a second thought to what happens after they turn on a tap or flush a toilet. And that is exactly the point! The dedication and professionalism of wastewater operators across Wisconsin ensure that everything works as it should—protecting public health and our state’s natural resources every single day.

Behind the scenes, there is also a great deal of work happening within our own Association. The WWOA Board of Directors (BOD) has been busy planning for the 60th Annual WWOA Conference, which will be held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, October 13–16. The Technical Committee met on March 13, 2026, to develop what promises to be an excellent lineup of technical presentations that you will truly enjoy.

Hotel accommodations have been selected, and I encourage you to make your reservations early. You can view the list of available hotels on the WWOA website.  Booking your hotel room reservation in advance will help ensure you can stay at your preferred hotel.

The Board of Directors works tirelessly behind the scenes to organize these outstanding events for both members and non-members alike. In addition, each Region and its committees dedicate significant time and effort to planning their respective regional meetings. It’s not an easy task, but strong leadership and collaboration across the organization make it possible.

Both the BOD and Regional leadership are also responsible for managing their respective budgets, ensuring that finances are accurate and accounted for down to the penny. There is truly a tremendous amount of work that happens behind the scenes.

The next time you see a member of the Board or a Regional Committee, please take a moment to thank them for their dedication and hard work. Their efforts are what make the WWOA’s high-quality events and programming possible year after year.

As we head into the months ahead, I encourage everyone to stay proactive, look out for one another, and take pride in the essential role you play in your community.

Thank you for everything you do, day in and day out. Here’s to a safe, productive, and hopefully slightly more predictable spring season.

Respectfully,

Ben Brooks, President, Wisconsin Wastewater Operators Association.